Realistic, but optimistic

With the U.S. focus shifting toward Mexico, Canadian representatives see an opportunity to cool the tensions that have developed over “poison pills” raised in the five previous rounds of talks.

The U.S. demands surrounding the auto sector, agriculture and an expiry clause were heavily criticized by both Canadian and Mexican officials.

Progress has been made, despite the controversial requests. On Saturday, a source with direct knowledge of the talks told CBC News that the anti-corruption chapter of NAFTA was completed.

“With every passing round of the negotiations, more and more of the contentious issues are closer to being solved,” Leslie said, describing the congressional visit as a “warm exchange.”

A softer tone between Canada and the U.S. will help quell the fears of foreign investors bracing for a trade blow up, but the final decision on NAFTA still inevitably lies with the American government.

“This is still an executive decision that the White House will have to make,” Leslie said.

Negotiators are still waiting to hear from Robert Lighthizer, the United States Trade Representative, on the final day of meetings. The Americans have been tight-lipped about their reaction to Canada’s new proposals while waiting for Lighthizer’s arrival.